Oil prices maintained, today, Thursday, the gains they began in the previous session amid indications of strong demand in the United States. Brent crude futures rose 42 cents, or 0.5 %, to $83.17 per barrel. While US West Texas Intermediate crude rose 43 cents, or 0.6 %, to $79.06. Crude inventories fell by 2.5 million barrels to 457 million barrels in the week ending May 10. Source: National Iraqi News Agency